Religion and Politics in Western Societies

This module introduces theoretical perspectives and methodological tools to study the intersection between religion and politics in Western democracies. The focus is on the role religion plays in different types of established 'secular' democracies and will maximise your awareness of the way political actors and institutions assert power by either invoking or excluding religious discourses and practices in the public sphere. Topics include religious and secular nationalism, transnational religious connections, religion in secular Europe and religious politics in America.

The module uses case studies to illustrate theoretical arguments. It seeks to achieve three broad aims:

• to provide an introduction to a series of crucial theories and debates which underpin interdisciplinary study
• to introduce the use of political techniques to question and critique the way in which authority is constructed in the secular and religious spheres and presented through institutions such as government, church, civil society, and international forums
• to develop an understanding of how religion impacts on power, authority, competition and identities.

By the end of the module, you will have:

• an advanced understanding of the key ideas about the study of politics and religion
• an advanced understanding of political theories and debates about the role of religion in Western politics
• a solid command and critical understanding of the concepts that shape religion - political discourse in Western democracies
• the capacity to formulate coherent analysis of political and religious data as they are articulated by actors in political contexts.

The standard entry requirements comprise:

• A 2:2 honours degree or international equivalent
• A CV and personal statement outlining your reasons for study
• English language band C (for example, IELTS 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in reading and writing, and 6.0 in listening and speaking).

You will be assessed via coursework, in the form of a 4,000-word essay.

This is an on-campus module. You will be expected to attend a 2-hour seminar in-person each week. Exact days and times will be provided upon enrolment.

This module is offered as part of our flexible master’s awards in Professional Development. The awards are one of the most flexible currently offered in the UK, providing the opportunity to study a range of modules from across King’s, both on-campus and online. Whether you are looking for a promotion or to retrain, you have come to the right place.   

Designed for mature professionals juggling life and work commitments, our postgraduate awards will enable you to study at your own pace. In challenging financial times, you are also able to fund your studies module-by-module. We will support you to select the right module diet that meets your objectives while ensuring that you are well prepared for success. We will also help you to build your professional network of peers from across our suite of CPD modules.  

We can’t wait for you to continue your lifelong learning journey here at King’s.